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Homely pub furniture can help exploratory drinkers

Pub furniture, at its best, has always made the local feel like a home from home; but new research from consumer analyst Mintel could provide new insight into why this is a good thing for pubs, drinkers and the whole brewing industry.

In a recently published report on the global beer industry, Mintel observes: "As always each market has its own peculiarities, but there has been a general trend of development whereby beers are introduced in the on trade and then extended into packaged formats designed for the off trade.

"Consumers get the taste when drinking out and then want to replicate it in the comfort of their home."

This is not just limited to beer, of course; plenty of people put large amounts of effort into replicating the taste of their favourite cocktail at home, while premixed beverages ranging from cocktails to alcopops have been on the market for years.

But there are still new product categories entering the market too, as the rise in bottled fruit-based ciders has demonstrated in more recent times.

It might seem counterintuitive for pubs to deliberately emulate customers' homes, as this might make it seem more likely that drinkers will make the switch to buying from the off trade and enjoying their favourite beverage at home.

However, making sure that pub furniture at least matches - if not exceeds - the comfort levels of customers' own homes could prove to be the deciding factor in getting more people out for a pint.

As winter approaches, that may mean ensuring upholstered seating is in good condition, as a soft cushion can be much more inviting in cold weather than bare wood; but in contrast, when the weather is wet, hard surfaces are easier to dry off ready for the next customer.

This need to cater for all tastes is a core component in many pub furniture ranges, which can include wooden furniture, leather armchairs, padded or cushioned seats and so on.

With winter on the way, it is the perfect time to invest in a few new pieces to fill any gaps in your existing pub furniture - and make sure, whoever walks through your doors, you have what you need to make them feel at home.